All eight recognized species of pangolins remain at high risk of extinction due to overexploitation and habitat loss, but inadequate reporting and outdated data are hindering efforts to protect them, according to a new study.
The study was commissioned by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora and was prepared by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.
Urgent Call for Reliable Data
The report, “Conservation Status, Trade and Enforcement Efforts for Pangolins,” highlights the lack of updated population estimates, monitoring programs and landscape-level management. Experts said more comprehensive data is urgently needed to guide evidence-based action.
“Pangolins are among the planet’s most extraordinary creatures, but they face immense pressure from exploitation and habitat loss,” said Dr. Grethel Aguilar, IUCN director-general in a statement. “Protecting them is not just about saving a species but safeguarding ecosystems.”
Weak Reporting and Enforcement
Pangolins were transferred to CITES Appendix I in 2017, prohibiting international commercial trade. However, few member states have reported on conservation measures, which limits the ability to assess progress.
Despite trade restrictions, trafficking remains widespread. Between 2016 and 2024, seizures involving pangolin products resulted in the confiscation of more than half a million animals across 75 countries and 178 trade routes, with scales accounting for 99 percent of the confiscated items. Officials warn seizures reflect only a fraction of the trade, as many consignments go undetected.
Local Pressures Persist
In addition to international trafficking, demand for pangolin meat and other products continues in many range states. Nearly all of these countries classify pangolins as fully protected; however, laws alone have not been sufficient to curb consumption.
“Trade bans and policy changes are not enough,” said Dr. Matthew Shirley, co-chair of the IUCN Species Survival Commission’s Pangolin Specialist Group. “Engaging local communities, Indigenous peoples and even consumers is essential to design effective conservation strategies.”
Roadmap for Stronger Action
The study calls on CITES Parties to strengthen national action plans under Resolution Conf. 17.10, which provides a framework for pangolin conservation and trade monitoring.
Recommendations include conducting robust population surveys, implementing targeted demand reduction campaigns, and enhancing reporting on illegal trade.
Experts stressed the need for cooperation from forest habitats to consumer markets, with local communities seen as the first line of defense against poaching.
The report comes weeks before the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi in October, where wildlife trade will be a major topic. The Congress will gather governments, civil society, Indigenous groups, businesses and academics to set the global conservation agenda for years to come.
